How much does it cost to install an electric gate?

Electric or automatic gates are growing increasingly popular for many residencies. Not only are they attractive, enhancing the curb appeal of the property, but electric gates are easy-to-use and also enhance security.

Automatic gates come in a wide range of styles, materials, and operating methods, all of which impact the final cost of the project. Most homeowners pay around $6,900 for single, 12-foot automatic gate fully installed.

Pros and cons

It is not necessary for a gate to be electric. Manual gates are also an option for many properties and, typically, cost significantly less. However, electric gates have pros and cons.

With electric gates, you do not need to exit the car when driving through them. They are activated by remote control, voice, sensor, or keypad among other options. So, they are typically faster to open than manual gates. Because some security gates and double gates can be heavy, an electric gate is also easier to use because it does not require any physical exertion to open or close. They may also be more secure than manual gates by not opening except by a designated code or device.

However, they are more expensive to purchase and sometimes more costly to install. If the battery that operates the gate fails, due to lack of charge for example, the gate could remain frozen open or shut. When this happens, it be difficult to operate manually.

Material

Like manual gates, electric gates can be made of several different materials. Each has its pros and cons to consider when deciding which may be right for your project:

Types

Like manual gates, electric gates come in a variety of styles and ways that they operate. Some are impacted by the grade or slope of the entryway. For example, swing gates are the most popular system, but if you have a steep hill beyond the gate, it may impede the swing, which would mean that a slide-style gate is a better option.

Gates break down into 5 general categories: slide gates, swing gates, ram gates, vertical pivot gates, and underground systems. Slide and swing gates break down further into different systems:

Gate opener

The mechanism that opens the gate varies from model to model. Many are controlled by battery, but the actual mechanism of the opener is generally either electromechanical or hydraulic. Electromechanical openers are more common. They can be electric, solar, or battery-operated and may rely on sensors, remote control, or a push button to operate. They work mostly on swing-style gates but can also work in sliding gates. They cost between $300 to $500 on average.

Hydraulic gate openers are less common, being used on uphill and lift-and-swing-style gates primarily. They may also operate by sensor ² or remote control and cost around $400 - $2,000 on average.

Installation

The installation of an automatic gate varies tremendously based on the type and style of gate and system as well as the material. In most cases, however, the biggest part of the installation cost will be the posts that hold the gate in place on either side. From there, it depends largely on the type of gate and its style and material. Sliding gates require tracks and special wheels, while swing gates require hinges ³. The actual mechanism needs to be set up, and in many cases, the sensor will need to be set and calibrated or the remote set up so that the gate can operate. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the size and style of the gate.

Labor costs

The labor portion of an electronic gate install is often two-fold. First, there is the installation of the gate itself. This costs between $750 and $1,800, depending on the material and size of the gate. Then, there is often an additional cost for the automated system installation, which depending on the method being used can cost another $1,500 to $3,000. The more involved the setup, the higher the costs. For example, a vertical pivot gate made of steel with a sensor ² will cost more to install than a vinyl ¹ gate with a remote control.

Enhancement and improvement costs

Voice communication

Some gates are operated remotely, which means that the driver of the car will need to be able to communicate via intercom ⁴ to the operator. Adding voice communication to your gate adds around $200 to the cost.

Keypads

Another option is a keypad, which lets you input a code to open the gate. Keypads also add around $200 to the cost of the gate.

Card reader

Card readers are a more secure way of allowing access than keypads and do not rely on someone being indoors to let you in. They cost around $250 to install.

Cameras

A camera can be added to the gate for around $80 that will let someone inside see who is approaching.

Masonry columns

Your gate will require columns on either side to support it. If you want to enhance the look of the gate, you can make these masonry columns for a cost of between $11 and $13 per foot of brick or stone.

Separate non-automated pedestrian access

While gates are often automated for cars, they may not be the best option for pedestrians. In this case, you may want to add a separate gate or access point for pedestrians. These cost an additional $200 to $600.

Additional considerations and costs

• Some municipalities require a permit for the installation of an automated gate. Always check with your local ordinances before proceeding.
• An alternative to an automatic gate is to install automatic bollards, which sink into the ground when not in use. They cost between $1,500 and $3,000 each.
• Electric gates have varying lifespans depending on the way they operate. Most last at least 10 years before needing replacement, but some may last longer.
• Solar power is one method of powering an automatic gate, using solar energy to charge the battery. Adding a solar panel to your gate costs around $95 for a single gate.
• Most gates are light enough not to trap or crush a person, but some heavier gates with hydraulic operating mechanisms may come down on a person if they are used improperly.
• The majority of automatic gates use batteries that assist in the event of a power failure. However, an extended power failure may mean you cannot charge the battery once it is depleted, which can render the gate inoperable.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

² Sensor: Device that responds to a physical event or change in the environment by emitting an output signal

³ Hinges: A type of joint that attaches two items together but allows one of them to swing back and forth, such as a door attached to a door frame

⁴ Intercom: A communication system allowing a person to speak into a microphone and be heard through a speaker in another location